Should London have a Night Mayor?

December 10, 2015

Through London First’s partnership with the BRITs, our aim is to leverage the hugely successful international brand London has, to spotlight new talent and our world-class venues.

For London to continue to create top talent and attract audiences, we need to look at a coherent approach to policies affecting it, involving businesses from across the economy, while taking into consideration the impact on housing, transport and planning.

As part of this we organised an event to discuss a night time economy champion for London, following similar positions being established in Amsterdam and Berlin. The “Night Mayor” would work to ensure the night time economy can continue to thrive, bringing together businesses, local authorities, and residents, to create a joined up strategy for London.

It was hosted by the Night Time Industries Association, set up to raise the profile of a sector which is worth an estimated £66bn, employing around 1.3 million people.

Over 50 representatives from business attended to hear the thoughts on the different approaches Amsterdam and Berlin have adopted to address the challenges and maximise the opportunities the Night time economy presents.

Munira Mirza, Deputy Mayor for Culture and Education, was joined by Mirik Milan, Amsterdam’s Mayor for the Night Time Economy, Lutz Liechsenring, Berlin’s Club Commission Board member and Alan Miller, the Chair of the Night Time Industries Association.

London First supported the evening together with BRITs Week, a partnership between London First, the BPI and AEG – owner of The O2.

In London, it is fundamental to the regeneration of post-industrial areas, the attraction and retention of students, high skilled workers, high growth companies, tourism and cultural and global events.

Speaking after the event Alan Miller, Chairman for NTIA, spoke of how “refreshing and uplifting it was to have strong business support” taking part in the debate.